Entertainment & Nightlife

Art, music, literature, and much more – Come and see what the “Island of the Arts” has to offer!

Entertainment is easy to come by on the islands. Sanibel Island has carefully cultivated its cultural offerings over the years, truly becoming an “Island of the Arts”. One successful island organization, Barrier Island Group for the Arts, or B.I.G. Arts, embodies this concept, with musical concerts, literary discussion groups, classes in painting, dance, pottery, drawing and more. B.I.G. Arts’ Schein Hall is an outstanding facility for performances, many of which happen during high season (February through April).

Sanibel Music Festival brings world-renowned performing artists to the island in the month of March. Festival-goers thrill to the sounds of string quartets, award-winning pianists and operettas, to name but a few musical choices. Check our Special Events Calendar for a complete listing.

Island Cinema shows first-run, current movies as well as occasional special offerings. Perfect for the rare rainy day or a relaxing evening.

Both Sanibel and Captiva have plenty of nightlife – live music in an intimate setting or an outdoor venue, cocktails and dancing, karaoke and sports bars are readily available.

Captiva Cruises offers a number of exciting excursions originating from Captiva’s McCarthy’s Marina. The Dolphin Watch and Wildlife adventure Cruise is a 90 minute outing on Pine Island Sound that is terrific for all ages. The Sunset Serenade Cruise is a popular hour-long cruise aimed at adults featuring live entertainment, cash bar and a spectacular sunset. Out-Island Cruises are half day adventures that travel to Cabbage Key, Useppa Island, Boca Grande, and Cayo Costa.